We were lucky enough to spend some of our Christmas holidays in the Maldives at the most amazing Soneva Fushi Resort, truly the most impressive hotel we have ever stayed at. They follow a SLOW LIFE philosophy which permeates everywhere you look on the resort and they take environmental issues and responsibilities very seriously. Something very close to our hearts at De Roemer.

Dinner on the amazing Sand Bank opposite Soneva Fushi

“What fun”, the only form of transport on the island!

Whilst we were there we overlapped with some very interesting guests. Justin was delighted to meet Buzz Aldrin, the second man on the moon and to dive on the beautiful coral reef with him more than once! Buzz at the grand age of 83 was diving twice a day! We were very impressed.

Michael Stipe taking a picture of some of ‘The Gathering’ including Tilda Swinton, Sonu and Eva

Group photo of ‘The Gathering’ on the Sand Bank

There was also a rather arty group of about 15, the ‘Gathering’ as they became known. Artists, musicians, directors, creatives and actors. Tilda Swinton and her man, artist, Sandro Kopp were amongst them along with Michael Stipe of REM fame, to name just 3. All terribly nice and keen to make a difference to the world as a collective and as individuals. Known voices can travel quite a distance so we hope that their influence can have some sort of impact on our environmental issues.

Justin and Wolf at the Sand Bank dinner

Ambient lighting on the Sand Bank

Eva and Sonu receiving his De Roemer cashmere!

It was so lovely to spend time with Sonu and Eva, the visionaries and owners of Soneva. They really are wonderful people and they care so much about everything and all the small details as well as being hugely loved by all their staff, family and friends.

Tamsin and Lula thoroughly approving…

My favourite spot in all the world!

What a truly beautiful island and how fabulous to be able to spend some time on it, we would like to go again and again and again….